Jan Richard Garda

Jan passed on August 30, 2025 at Paramount Senior Living in McMurray, following a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born in 1945 to Walter F. and Violet (née Nattrass) Garda, Jan graduated from Springdale High School, after which he went on to Clarion University and then the University of Pittsburgh where he received both a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Education. He began his career as a guidance counselor and founder of Theater 180 at Trinity High School, before moving into administration as an assistant principal at Trinity Middle School and later Trinity High School. Jan went on to serve as principal at Northgate High School and Baldwin High School before retiring in 2003. In retirement, he worked for NISL (National Institute of School Leadership), teaching coursework and passing along his vast experience in education to future fellow principals and administrators.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Cindy (née Rogers) Garda; his son Brant (Jessica) Garda; his daughter Brenna (Nicholas) Hamming; and his sister Shelley (David) Watts. He also leaves behind four beautiful grandchildren (Abigail and Madeleine Garda; Logan and John Peter Hamming) and his cherished nephew Tras Watts, along with many dear family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents and his older brother Walter Jr ("Sonny") Garda.

Per Jan's requests, immediate family will be having a private memorial service, while extended family and friends will be received at an open house Celebration of Life at Southpointe Golf Club from 1-3pm on Sunday, September 14 th.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jan's name to the American Cancer Society.

The family wishes to thank the staff from Grane Hospice, Asbury Heights, Paramount Senior Living, and Paramount Hospice, who provided such tender care to Jan at the end of his life.